Milwaukee Brewers on the Brink of Acquiring Frankie Montas from Cincinnati Reds
In an intriguing move poised to shake up the MLB landscape, the Milwaukee Brewers are reportedly on the verge of acquiring veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. The proposed deal, yet to receive official confirmation from either team, will see the Brewers parting ways with outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis.
League sources suggest that the trade is imminent, adding a significant arm to an already formidable Brewers’ rotation. Frankie Montas, 31, currently holds a one-year, $16 million contract and brings a blend of experience and tenacity to the mound. However, his performance this season has been a mixed bag, posting a 5.01 ERA over 19 starts, accumulating 93 1/3 innings.
Montas’ recent run of form has shown inconsistency, reflecting a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS in his last eight starts, while averaging fewer than five innings per outing during this stretch. Despite these struggles, the Brewers appear confident in the veteran's ability to rebound and provide depth as they eye a deep postseason run.
An Eye on the Playoffs
Currently holding a commanding 60-45 record, the Brewers boast a six-game lead in the NL Central. This acquisition aligns with their aggressive trade strategy this season. Earlier this month, Milwaukee secured right-hander Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays, further bolstering their pitching staff. Additionally, they added right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies, signifying their commitment to strengthen the bullpen for the stretch run.
Joey Wiemer, part of the trade heading to Cincinnati, emerged as an intriguing prospect for the Brewers. At 25 years old, Wiemer displayed flashes of power during his rookie campaign in 2023, slashing .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs. As an alum of the University of Cincinnati, the young outfielder's return to familiar territory could provide the Reds with a valuable addition for their outfield depth.
Cincinnati's Trade Strategy
The Cincinnati Reds, holding a 51-55 record and sitting 4.5 games out of a postseason spot, appear open to shaking up their roster. In addition to Montas, the Reds are reportedly exploring the market for their rental players, including relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson. There's also chatter regarding the potential movement of second baseman Jonathan India, showcasing Cincinnati's willingness to make bold moves as they eye a rebuild.
Jakob Junis, also included in the trade, is working on a one-year contract. His addition to the Reds could help stabilize their pitching rotation or provide reliever support, depending on their strategic needs.
While the trade awaits formal announcement, this brewing deal marks another significant step in both franchises’ evolving strategies. For the Brewers, adding Montas, despite his recent struggles, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to fortifying their roster in pursuit of a successful postseason campaign. On the other hand, the Reds’ readiness to trade key assets signals a focus on future potential and roster flexibility.
The coming days will undoubtedly offer more clarity as the official confirmation unfolds, but for now, the brewing shake-up promises to add an exciting layer to the MLB trade season narrative.